**Canadian High Commission Delegation Reviews Women’s Empowerment Projects in Chitral**
Officials from the Canadian High Commission in Islamabad recently visited several sites in Upper and Lower Chitral to assess the progress of the GAC-funded BEST4WEER project, a major initiative designed to enhance women’s economic empowerment and gender equality in the region. The delegation, led by Luke Myers, Head of Aid, and Sasha Oliveira, Second Secretary, met with project participants, partners, and community stakeholders during an extensive tour of multiple project activities.
Accompanied by Aga Khan Foundation Pakistan (AKF) CEO Akhtar Iqbal and other senior AKF representatives, the delegation visited various communities to observe firsthand the impact of the BEST4WEER project’s interventions. In Booni, Upper Chitral, the officials toured a passive solar greenhouse, a women-focused market, artisanal microenterprises such as Needle Point and Booni Enterprise, and “Jimmy’s Kitchen.” They engaged directly with local beneficiaries, including those who had received microgrants to launch or expand businesses.
The visit continued in Chitral town, where the group observed operations at Hub-Be-Connect, Chitral Natural Farms, and Suha Apparels, all of which exemplify innovative efforts in women-led entrepreneurship and value addition. The delegation then traveled to Bumburet in the scenic Kalash Valley, where they saw the implementation of a trout fish farm, employer-led skills training at the Kalasha Gems and Jewellery Centre, and women-owned businesses in Krakal village. The team also toured Ishpata News, a local media organization promoting women’s voices and community journalism.
A key stop included Broze, where the delegation interacted with the Hindukush Integrated Development Organisation (HIDO), a civil society group headed by women and focused on gender-responsive programming. Here, they met community representatives and local stakeholders, gaining insight into grassroots development efforts.
During the visit, Sasha Oliveira officially inaugurated a new Rug Weaving and Shawl Making Production Centre, established under the BEST4WEER project in partnership with the Government’s Social Welfare Department. The delegation also participated in an activity of the Community of Practice – Gender Equality Transformative Alliance (GETA), demonstrating Canada’s commitment to advancing gender equality.
Additionally, the team met with young interns and fellows from the project’s Youth Internship Programme (YIP), as well as master trainers conducting life skills sessions, highlighting the project’s multifaceted approach to building capacity and empowering women and youth in Chitral.
The visit underscores the ongoing collaboration between the Canadian government, Aga Khan Foundation, and local partners to advance inclusive development and foster opportunities for women and girls in some of Pakistan’s most remote communities.
